CPR for Adults — Responding When Every Second Counts
Did You Know?
Recent research shows that chest compression-only CPR can be just as effective in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest. [2]
STAY INFORMED
- Each year in the U.S., more than 395,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. [1]
- When breathing stops, the body is starved of oxygen, and brain damage can begin in as little as 4 minutes. [1]
- When CPR is provided immediately, it can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival. Yet fewer than half of cardiac arrest victims receive bystander help. [1]
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Check for Responsiveness
- Tap the person and shout. If they’re unresponsive and not breathing (or only gasping), call 911 and begin CPR. [1]
2. Hand Position for Compressions
- Place one hand on top of the other in the center of the chest, and interlock your fingers. Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly above your hands.
3. Compression Rate and Depth
- Push hard and fast at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (think of the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”). Compress at least 2 inches deep. [1]
4. Rescue Breaths Are No Longer Required
- New guidelines emphasize compression-only CPR for untrained bystanders. If trained and willing, you may still perform breaths after every 30 compressions. [2]
FIRST AID REMINDER
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere — at work, at home, or in public. Learning CPR and acting quickly can mean the difference between life and death. Don't wait — push hard, push fast, and keep going until help arrives.